The four speed in the 95-96 cars is very durable. Tough as nails.

Not needed. Hydraulics.

M104 might need to have it's head off for a gasket, and if you're at 150K-miles, might be a good time to freshen the head too. For the most part though, the M104 is super durable and will last a very long time, even in the 3.6L AMG version.

Yup. Nice big double row on that engine. Short path means long life from the chain.

Nope. 90% of the parts on a C36 are run of the mill C280 parts. However, the AMG specific bits are VERY expensive compared to normal C-Class parts. Brake parts for our C36 were about four times the price of the parts for our C230. The C36 also wears tires out VERY fast, and you MUST install Z-rated Max Performance tires, otherwise you might as well have bought a C280.

The C36 is a great car. Reliable like the C-Class line, but can run very hard. there are some caveats on the 95's...

Wiring harness issues. The 95's still had the biodegradable harness. Yuck. $1000.

ASR program is very aggressive, and cannot be completely turned off. However, ASR was optional on 95's, and so you might find one without it. That's a find!

Some 95's also have the old style on-off AC compressor system, which is not as reliable as the 1996- variable pressure system. The 95's also have the "old style" ACC control panel, but it seems to be as durable as the 96- units.

The four speed cars are not quite as quick as the 97 five speeds, but no slouches either. Our well broken in 95 could run low 14 quarters at close to 100mph. But, without the overdrive fifth gear, they don't get as good fuel economy. In fact, when pushed hard, the C36 can drink like a full sized SUV. The seats are much different than other C-Class cars, and VERY comfy and supportive.

Before buying, have a VERY thorough PPI done. Expect to pay $200-$250 for one that dives deep enough for a C36.

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John Shellenberg
1998 C230 "Black Betty" 240K

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